NEWS26 September 2024

New Civic Agreement to Address Surrey’s Biggest Challenges and Boost Local Innovation Economy

Leaders of Surrey County Council three university vice-chancellors

Surrey County Council and the county’s three leading universities—the University of Surrey, Royal Holloway and University for the Creative Arts — have signed a new Civic Agreement for Surrey.


This collaborative initiative aims to use the combined resources and expertise of these institutions to address local challenges and foster a more inclusive and resilient community by 2030.


The agreement sets out four key priorities: promoting a sustainable economy, reducing health inequalities, advancing environmental sustainability, and empowering thriving communities.


At a launch event on Friday 20th September, Tim Oliver OBE, Leader of Surrey County Council, joined with the Vice-Chancellors of the other signatory universities to emphasises the importance of ongoing collaborative projects, such as the Games and Innovation Nexus (GAIN) Project, in achieving these goals.


This agreement is seen as a public commitment to bring about tangible, positive changes for the people of Surrey. By working together, the council and universities aim to create a brighter future for all residents, ensuring that Surrey remains a vibrant and dynamic place to live, learn, and work.


The new 32-page Civic Agreement includes a section designed to drive regional innovation and address local challenges and strengthen Surrey’s innovation economy by encouraging startups and supporting growth, while attracting foreign direct investment and inward investment from pioneering companies, to enrich the region’s innovation district.

Harnessing Data and AI

The rapid development of big data, artificial intelligence (AI), and associated technologies is set to drive significant change over the next decade. The partners are dedicated to ensuring that all strategic priorities benefit from these advancements. This includes direct application of technology in work programmes and public engagement to ensure inclusive, safe, and impactful use of these technologies.


Caroline Fleming, Director of the Surrey Innovation District at the University of Surrey, welcomed the Civic Agreement. She said: “The civic agreement is about enabling economic growth and regional prosperity by making the most of the knowledge, talent, and facilities in the region and working together to attract investment and new opportunities. The signing of the agreement is clear evidence of the four leaders sharing objectives and aspirations and setting a path for greater collaboration.”

Download the full Civic Agreement from Surrey County Council’s website.